rife
|rife|
B2
/raɪf/
widespread; full of
Etymology
Etymology Information
'rife' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'rīfr', where it meant 'abundant'.
Historical Evolution
'rīfr' changed into Middle English forms such as 'rif(e)' and eventually became the modern English word 'rife'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'abundant', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'widespread; full of (often something undesirable)'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
(especially of something undesirable) widespread or very common
Corruption was rife in the administration.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/09 23:53